John Kinyon's Basic Training Course, Book 1: Oboe Book

Kinyon designed this method to work seamlessly whether you're teaching one oboe student, a section of oboists, or blending them into a mixed ensemble. The practical approach respects the oboe's unique voice while building fundamentals that stick, and the 32-page format keeps momentum high without overwhelming beginners navigating the double reed.

Straightforward and encouraging, with music that sounds like actual band repertoire rather than finger exercises in disguise. Each page builds confidence by balancing technical work with short melodies that reward the effort and give students real musical satisfaction.

Oboe students beginning their band or private study, whether starting in elementary school or joining band at any level where foundational skills are needed. This method works equally well for individual lessons, small group instruction, and full ensemble settings where oboists need to integrate with other woodwinds and the broader band.

• Establish long tones early and return to them regularly. Even short, focused sessions on sustained notes build the embouchure strength that reed control demands.
• Pair the written exercises with recorded ensemble sound when available so students hear where their part fits within the whole band context.
• Address reed setup and maintenance from the start; a struggling oboist is often working with a reed that needs adjustment, not a musical problem.

Use this as the oboe-specific foundation during your band's first semester, working through it alongside your main band method so oboists develop the technical control their instrument demands. The sequential approach supports students who need extra time on double reed fundamentals before tackling the faster note patterns and ensemble coordination of intermediate band arrangements.

• Embouchure formation and long tone production
• Reading in the treble clef and recognizing note names on the staff
• Breath control and phrasing over sustained passages
• Basic articulation and dynamic control
• Listening and blending with ensemble sound